Ottawa – Mayor Jim Watson cut the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the office of the Canadian Cancer Survivor Network Wednesday October 3, 2012, surrounded by cancer survivors, families, community organization representatives and funders.

The Mayor presented a framed declaration to commemorate the occasion to Jackie Manthorne, President and CEO. He spoke of the dedication of Board, staff, and volunteers and acknowledged the valuable role of the Canadian Cancer Survivor Network in serving as a voice for cancer patients, survivors, their families, and other community stakeholders.

President and CEO Jackie Manthorne thanked the Mayor and talked about the collaboration and support of the founding Board of Directors: Garth Bulmer, Vanessa Compton, Mike Fletcher, Mona Forrest, Ross Hammond, and Albert Klein.

Reverend Doctor Dana Fisher blessed the new office and read an Irish poem related to all things to be thankful for.

Takihiro Hirasawa, President of Eisai Limited, spoke about commonalities between Eisai starting their Canadian office about a year ago when the Canadian Cancer Survivor Network was in development, and he noted the CCSN web site opened on the same date as his birthday. He wished the organization much success.

The Canadian Cancer Survivor Network (CCSN) is a national network of patients, families, survivors, friends, community partners and sponsors. Its mission is to work together by taking action to promote the very best standard of care, support, follow up and quality of life for cancer patients and survivors. It aims to educate the public and policy makers about cancer survivorship and encourage research on ways to alleviate barriers to optimal cancer care in Canada.